You’re attending a conference with industry veterans. How can you make the most of it?

1 Research the speakers

Before the conference, do some background research on the speakers and their topics. This will help you decide which sessions to attend, what questions to ask, and how to connect with them. You can also use social media, blogs, or podcasts to learn more about their work, interests, and opinions. This will show them that you are genuinely interested and informed, and not just trying to impress them.

2 Plan your agenda

Conferences can be packed with sessions, workshops, panels, and networking events. To avoid missing out on the most relevant and valuable ones, plan your agenda ahead of time. Check the conference website, app, or brochure for the schedule, location, and description of each activity. Prioritize the ones that align with your goals, interests, and skills. Also, leave some room for flexibility, as you might discover new opportunities or change your mind along the way.

3 Engage actively

During the conference, don't be afraid to engage actively with the speakers, organizers, and other attendees. Ask thoughtful questions, share your insights, and contribute to the discussions. You can also use social media to tweet, post, or comment on the conference highlights, and tag or mention the relevant people. This will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm, knowledge, and professionalism, and also create a digital record of your participation.

4 Network strategically

One of the main benefits of attending a conference with industry veterans is the chance to network with them and build relationships. However, don't try to meet everyone or exchange business cards randomly. Instead, network strategically by focusing on the people who can offer you the most value, feedback, or guidance. You can also use the conference app, social media, or email to introduce yourself, request a meeting, or follow up on a conversation.

5 Seek feedback

Another way to make the most of a conference with industry veterans is to seek feedback from them. Whether it's about your work, your career goals, or your challenges, getting feedback from experienced and respected professionals can help you improve your skills, performance, and confidence. You can ask for feedback during or after a session, a workshop, or a networking event. Be specific, respectful, and open-minded, and thank them for their time and advice.

6 Apply what you learned

Finally, don't let the conference end without applying what you learned. Review your notes, action items, and contacts, and make a plan to implement them. You can also write a blog post, a report, or a presentation to share your key takeaways and insights with your colleagues, clients, or peers. This will help you reinforce your learning, showcase your expertise, and add value to your organization or community.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?